What is America's favorite pet?

America's favorite pet is overwhelmingly the dog, with more households owning them than any other animal, followed by cats, fish, and birds, though the specific "winner" of popular contests changes yearly, like Buster the Bulldog in 2025. Dogs are beloved for loyalty and companionship, while cats offer independence, making them top contenders in household ownership surveys, notes the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and Forbes Advisor.

Is America's favorite pet legitimate?

America's Favorite Pet is operated as part of a fundraising campaign for DTCare, a United States 501(c)(3) public charity organization.

What is the favorite pet in America?

Most Popular Pets in America

• Dogs. Dogs come in at number one, with48.3 million households owning dogs in the United States, making these four-legged friends one of the most popular pets around. ...
• Cats. ...
• Fish. ...
• Reptiles. ...
• Birds. ...
• Rabbits. ...
• Pet Poultry. ...
• Horses.

Who is America's favorite pet in 2025?

2025 Champion

Buster is a charismatic, cuddly pup who loves soccer and roasted chicken. Always by his owner's side, he's the ultimate chill companion, lighting up every room with his lovable personality.

Who runs America's favorite pet?

America's Favorite Pet is an annual competition and fundraised operated by Colossal, benefiting PAWS. In 2024, the campaign resulted in a $8.9M grant to PAWS through DTCare.

America’s Favorite Pet 2026 w/ Donnie and Jenny

Where does the money for America's favorite pet go?

America's Favorite Pet is partnering with PAWS (Progressive Animal Welfare Society) to aid in its mission to help cats, dogs, and wild animals thrive. A paid vote = a donation.

Is IAMS made in China?

All of Iams dry dog food products sold within the United States are manufactured at their plants located in the United States. Their ingredients are carefully selected for the health and well-being of the pets they feed.

What is the #1 pet in the world?

While dogs are often called "man's best friend" and lead in U.S. households, freshwater fish are the most numerous pet globally, followed by cats and then dogs, though dogs are considered the top companion animal in many regions due to their strong bond with humans, with popular breeds like the French Bulldog gaining recent traction. 

Has anyone ever won America's favorite pet?

Buster the bulldog from New York is the winner of "America's Favorite Pet" competition hosted by professional fundraiser Colossal for animal welfare organization PAWS. "Modern Family" star Eric Stonestreet hosted the competition.

Do you have to pay to vote on America's favorite pet?

You can use your Free Daily Vote once every 24 hours and you can cast "PAWS Votes" for your favorite Competitor at any time.

What are the top 3 pets?

The top 3 pets, based on U.S. household ownership, are consistently Dogs, Cats, and then either Freshwater Fish or Small Animals (hamsters, rabbits, etc.), with fish often ranking third for sheer numbers of households, followed closely by birds and reptiles. Dogs are #1 for loyalty and family fun, cats offer independence with affection, while fish provide low-maintenance beauty, and small critters offer cuddly fun for all ages, notes PetHelpful, everviz.
 

What is America's #1 dog?

The number one dog in America, according to the latest American Kennel Club (AKC) data and U.S. News & World Report, is the French Bulldog, holding the top spot for several years, while the Labrador Retriever, after 31 years at #1, is now a strong second. The Frenchie's charm and adaptability make it a favorite, with the Golden Retriever and German Shepherd rounding out the top three or four most popular breeds.
 

What are the prizes for America's favorite pet contest?

You could win $10,000 and have your pet featured on the cover of Modern Dog or Modern Cat magazine! - with America's Favorite Pet.

What is the 3 3 3 rule of rescue?

The "3-3-3 rule of rescue" is a guideline for helping newly adopted pets adjust to their forever homes, suggesting it takes roughly 3 days to decompress and feel safe, 3 weeks to learn routines and start bonding, and 3 months to truly feel comfortable, trust their new family, and show their full personality. It sets realistic expectations for patience, consistency, and understanding during the transition, emphasizing calm support for the pet's emotional journey.
 

Why should I register my dog with ACA?

Official Recognition: ACA is a reputable organization dedicated to promoting the well-being of dogs and ensuring their pedigrees are accurately documented. Pedigree Certification: ACA provides pedigree certification, which can be crucial for breeding purposes or participating in dog shows and competitions.

What happened to Riley the Golden Retriever on 9/11?

Riley died five years ago and Bailey died last Saturday at the age of 14. He had a great life and was really quite healthy over the years. Those two certainly brought me a ton of happiness and pride in their accomplishments.

What is the 5 minute rule for labradors?

The Labrador "5-minute rule" is a guideline for puppy exercise: 5 minutes of structured activity (like walking) for each month of age, once or twice daily, until they're around one year old, to protect developing joints. So, a 3-month-old gets about 15 minutes, a 6-month-old gets 30 minutes. This rule prevents overexertion, but it's crucial to watch for fatigue and remember that free play in the garden counts, and it's not a strict limit for all activity, just structured, repetitive exercise. 

What is the #1 cutest dog?

There's no single #1 cutest dog, as it's subjective, but the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is frequently cited for its soulful eyes and silky coat, while science points to the Dalmatian for facial symmetry; other popular contenders include Pomeranians, French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, and Pugs.
 

What is the 3-3-3 rule for pets?

The 3-3-3 rule is a roadmap for the first three days, three weeks, and three months after pet adoption. It emphasizes patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to help pets acclimate to their new environment.

Who is the rarest pet?

The "rarest pet" depends on the category, but generally involves unique species or highly specific color morphs, like the Norwegian Lundehund (a very rare dog) or specific chameleon/fish variations, though genuinely wild, endangered animals (like the Fossa or Iriomote Cat) aren't typical pets, with extreme rarity often seen in specialized exotic breeds or designer mutations like certain rare chameleon colors. 

Has Donald Trump ever owned a pet?

Most United States presidents have kept pets while in office, or pets have been part of their families. Only James K. Polk, Andrew Johnson, and Donald Trump did not have any presidential pets while in office (however, Johnson did take care of some mice he found in his bedroom).

What is the #1 healthiest dog food?

There's no single "number 1" healthiest dog food, as the best choice depends on your dog's needs, but vets often recommend brands like Purina Pro Plan, Hill's Science Diet, and Royal Canin for their research and complete nutrition, while fresh foods (Nom Nom, The Farmer's Dog), high-protein options (Orijen), and limited-ingredient diets (FirstMate) cater to specific sensitivities or preferences, with raw diets also popular for nutrient bioavailability. Always consult your vet to find the best fit for your dog's age, breed, and health.
 

Is Royal Canin made in China?

Yes, Royal Canin has manufacturing facilities in China, along with many other locations globally, including France, the U.S., Brazil, South Africa, and South Korea; products sold in specific countries, like the U.S., are often made in local company-owned plants, but Royal Canin sources globally for supply chain security, ensuring consistent quality standards worldwide. 

What food does Oprah feed her dog?

Oprah feeds her dogs a diet of fresh, whole foods like cooked chicken, beef, lamb, rice, carrots, and potatoes, focusing on natural ingredients rather than processed kibble, a practice inspired by her show's focus on healthy eating, though specific brands aren't always highlighted, it's about real food for her dogs.